Boy Scouts may end anti-gay ban after 1 million voice outrage

More than 1.2 million people signed a petition calling for an end to the BSA’s ban on gay Scouts and Scout leaders. As a result, the Scouts may soon announce it will allow gay Scouts and troop leaders, a spokesman for the group has told USA TODAY.

BSA spokesperson Deron Smith released the following statement announcing the potential policy change:

“Currently, the BSA is discussing potentially removing the national membership restriction regarding sexual orientation. This would mean there would no longer be any national policy regarding sexual orientation, and the chartered organizations that oversee and deliver Scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with each organization’s mission, principles, or religious beliefs. BSA members and parents would be able to choose a local unit that best meets the needs of their families.”

The decision follows a nearly yearlong campaign by GLAAD, Scouts For Equality, and Change.org.

Portions of the article adapted by Proud Parenting from original press release